Living on the Water: A Guide for Floating Home Owners and Marina Managers Credits

Authors: Pat Welle, a floating home owner, former Scappoose Bay Watershed Council Coordinator, and local photographer.

Kammy Kern-Korot, Senior Conservationist at West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District, who works with the moorage community on special habitat projects and many other projects.

Contributors: Many people contributed to this publication, primarily by providing feedback on the first version of the publication, but also by reviewing new material and providing additional suggestions. They include members of floating home communities, Oregon State Marine Board, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, local fire officials, and other staff from West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District.

Publication and funding: This guide was produced collaboratively by several local organizations, marina managers, owners, and residents, with funding provided by West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District. It was developed in response to interest expressed by members of the floating home community. This interest followed outreach by the West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District starting in 2013 and gained traction as Scappoose Bay Watershed Council became an active partner.

This is the second version of this guide, published in 2020. It is meant to be a collaborative work in progress. We appreciate the feedback we received on the first version (2016), which proved popular. We hope to continue to provide updates as new ideas and methods to improve our life on the water become available. Look for future online or print versions at wmswcd.org.

cover photo by Pat Welle Table of Contents

Introduction and Purpose ...... 5

Chapter 1 – Moorage Facilities ...... 7 Fire Prevention and Preparedness ...... 7 Moorage Facilities – General Information ...... 9 Home Mooring Connections ...... 10 Deck and Marina Protection ...... 11 Moorage Water and Waste Management Systems ...... 11 Moorage Lighting and Signage Regulations ...... 12 Boat Wakes and Effects on Marinas ...... 13

Chapter 2 – Individual Home Operation, Maintenance, and Repair ...... 15 Water, Waste Management, and other Utilities ...... 15 Home Flotation ...... 17 External Structure Cleaning and Maintenance ...... 19

Chapter 3 – Vegetation and Animals ...... 20 Maintaining and Adding Native Plants ...... 20 Container Gardening ...... 23 Composting ...... 25 Using Fertilizers, Herbicides, and Pesticides ...... 25 Invasive Plant Identification and Control ...... 27 Priority Aquatic Invasive Animal and Plant Species ...... 30 Wildlife Around Moorages and Floating Homes ...... 32

Chapter 4 – Recreational Craft, Swimming, and Other Activities ...... 36 Invasive Species Permits ...... 36 Gas and Oil Spills ...... 36 Refueling Stations for Boats ...... 37 Water Quality for Swimming and Fishing ...... 37 Chapter 5 – Codes and Regulations ...... 39 City of Portland Title 28 – Floating Structures ...... 39 Oregon State Marine Board ...... 39

Chapter 6 – Resources ...... 40 Moorage, Home, and Boater-related ...... 40 Plants and Animals ...... 41 Water Quality and Safety ...... 43 Grants and Programs ...... 44

Chapter 7 – Emergency Numbers and Services/Contracting Resources ...... 45 Emergency Numbers and Utilities ...... 45 Contracting and Homeownership Resources...... 45 Introduction and Purpose • General facility management practices to reduce impacts – several small things that The purpose of this guide is to provide floating can make a big difference home residents and managers of floating home • How to keep belongings from blowing away marinas with information on effective and • The benefits of native vegetation (including practical methods to protect property and less work) minimize environmental impacts of living on • Invasive species to look out for the water. This includes general information on • Local wildlife – what to expect and how to safety, construction, repair and maintenance, better enjoy our wild neighbors particularly as these activities may affect • Where moorage managers and water quality. homeowners can go for more information

Information is also provided on enhancing Regarding the use of “moorage,” “marinas,” and associated aquatic habitat, living with and “houseboats”: these terms are used interchangeably enjoying wildlife, and managing invasive species. in this guide. Local sources of information on floating home communities appear to use these Included is a summary of regulations specific to terms for the same or similar descriptive elements; floating home communities located in Oregon, i.e., named communities may be ‘Name Moorage’ the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and or ‘Name Marina’; the regulatory codes appear to along Multnomah Channel (for informational use ‘marina’, as do other documents. purposes only). Reference is made throughout this guide to various The final chapters provide a list of resources local floating home regulations, primarily the City and links to additional information on the topics of Portland, which has the most comprehensive covered. Emergency numbers for moorage regulation set. These references provide operators and homeowners are also provided. very useful information, and are FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. A few highlights of this guide include: This guide is not intended in any way to be • Fire prevention – Protecting homes and a regulatory document. moorages, and emergency response tips

5 Moorages and Marinas of Western Multnomah County and Scappoose Bay

6 Chapter 1 – Moorage Facilities

This section discusses operations and maintenance issues specific to marina/moorage facilities, and the following section provides information relevant to individual homes within a moorage. There are over 50 floating home moorages in the greater Portland Metro area; they are found along the Multnomah Channel, the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, and as far downstream as St. Helens. Moorages may a new floating home arrives at a moorage have as few as 3 floating home slips or as photo by Pat Welle many as 100 in a single marina. Management and ownership varies considerably among for fire prevention and safety. An example of the facilities (described on pages 9-10). The requirements for spacing between structures, character of moorages also varies from urban from Scappoose Fire District, is 4 feet or to rural to industrial, or adjacent to boat more, roof-to-roof, for anything in place prior marinas. to 1990, and 8 feet or more, roof-to-roof, for anything brought in or built after 1990. Know The following sections describe key the regulations for your moorage and apply the components of moorage facilities and systems. best possible safety measures.

Fire Prevention and Preparedness Most Multnomah County floating homes are required to follow City of Portland codes, but City of Portland Title 28, Chapter 28.06.030 homes located in northern Multnomah County (under the section for New Construction, see and southern Columbia County are part of the link on page 40) details important fire safety City of Scappoose or other fire districts and elements for marinas including access roads, should comply with the appropriate fire codes. moorage exits, distance between floating Specifically, all moorages north of Cornelius Pass homes and other structures, ‘fire clear access’ are dispatched to Scappoose Fire District and on both the walkways and individual homes, are required to follow their regulations and codes. and other construction components critical

7 One of the more important considerations for those in Scappoose Fire District is house and moorage numbering – this is applicable to fire, medical, and law enforcement, and includes specific sizing and placement requirements for house and moorage address numbers, as well as the requirement to have a map of the houses at the top of the ramps.

All homeowners and moorage residents and managers should discuss and develop written fire prevention plans for both individual homes and for the dock facilities as a whole. Again, know the fire codes and identify safety practices, and rehearse fire escape plans at regular intervals. Key items for fire management include: fire pump house • A dry standpipe system – piping installed photo by Pat Welle on the docks used to pump water from the river in case of fire; highly recommended • Recommended fire extinguisher type: and required in some areas 1-A:10-B:C (2.5-pound) or a 5-pound • Air Horns – to alert neighbors in the event extinguisher (2-A:10-B:C) of a fire; inexpensive and easy to find at any • Working smoke detectors home improvement store; if provided to • Annual servicing of fire extinguishers and each homeowner, and kept at the ready, smoke detectors they can prove to be an effective and • Water hose – know where the nearest one important early response warning to the is on your dock and how to use it whole community • Gas and water shut-offs – know where they • Fire extinguishers – required for all homes; are and how to turn them off homeowners and all residents should be • Fire buckets – have them available in familiar with their location and operation; multiple locations along the dock have one both inside and outside the home

8 Fire Safety Facilities Electric shock drowning and electrocution are both potential hazards for anyone who falls Moorages have fire pump stations located into electrified water. (See page 38 for more at critical locations along their docks. information.) Homeowners should become familiar with the nearest station and the operation of all In the case of a significant emergency, be fire safety equipment, in accordance with prepared to be self-reliant for 72 hours. This instructions from their local fire jurisdiction. includes having water, food, batteries, and other supplies easily accessible. Fire Drills and Practice

Regularly practice fire drills that include practicing the use of escape routes and fire suppression activities. It is also recommended that each floating home community conduct a training where all residents can watch a demonstration of a fire pump and practice operating one. All homeowners and residents should be familiar with the location and operation of the fire pumps in their moorage, and particularly the one closest to their homes. Scappoose Fire District boat Have an escape plan that involves an alternative photo by Pat Welle way out, in case fire blocks access to the main access ramp to the moorage. This might be by Moorage Facilities – General Information kayak, canoe, or other small craft. Always call 9-1-1 in the case of fire. Floating home communities are typically owned or run by a single entity or association. Additional Safety Notes Home spaces are either rented by individual homeowners, or the rights to deck space are Another moorage concern is electricity. All owned through an undivided interest managed electrical connections should be well secured, by an association. The entity or association without the potential to electrify the water. provides and maintains shared facilities (in

9 addition to docks and ramps), such as water, Maintenance: Regularly monitor and maintain sewer, other utility hookups, and parking. the property to detect and manage any leaks, spills, or litter that could end up in the waterway. Regardless of ownership, choices related to facility and land management, and landscape Lighting: Use energy-efficient systems and design and practices, can affect the environment. those that minimize pollution of the night sky. Positive contributions can be made in these areas: See details under Moorage Lighting on page 12. A link to the International Dark Sky Association Parking lots: Provide for responsible drainage can be found on page 40. and minimize water runoff by maximizing the amount of pervious surface and surrounding Other areas: Other amenities such as fish- vegetation; this can include a vegetated swale cleaning stations and pet-waste baggie holders or other buffers on the downslope end. See are simple ways to improve environmental page 43 for resources on swale construction. conditions around marinas.

Docks and walkways: Use recycled plastic Home Mooring Connections materials or untreated lumber. Floating homes are generally moored alongside Upland areas: Enhance habitat and aesthetics docks; recommended forms of attachment by planting native plants; manage invasive weeds; use rigid standoffs or galvanized chains. These provide garden and composting space; where features allow homes to rise and fall with water irrigation is needed, use water-conserving systems levels, putting less stress on moorage docks such as drip irrigation; practice integrated pest and home mounting points. Utility lines for gas, management and minimize pesticide and ferti- power, phone, sewer, and water are typically lizer use. Find additional details on vegetation in suspended from the underside of docks Chapter 3, with links to resources in Chapter 6. and connected to each home. Some power lines may be suspended above the walkway; Stormwater management: Install storm all should be constructed or maintained to drain catch basins in upland areas if space conform to existing standards (for example, allows, and along docks; use bilge socks to filter Sections 28.07 to 28.09 of the Portland Codes). oily water and prevent petroleum components Residents and managers should check these from entering the ground or waterways. lines regularly for leaks or maintenance issues.

10 both the north and the south can be more severe than elsewhere since it is funneled along the base of the Tualatin Mountains. Outdoor equipment and furnishings should, therefore, be well secured.

Securing Outdoor Items

Here are some items commonly seen floating downriver and tips to keep them secure: • Use tie-downs or racks for items such as small boats, kayaks, canoes and inflatable rafts. • Store chairs and small deck tables folded or overturned against a wall or large planter. Lightweight items may need additional tie-downs. mooring connection of galvanized chains • Secure chair cushions, deck umbrellas, and photo by Pat Welle other items such as small foam coolers in storage units so they are not easily carried In addition to protecting the environment, away by the wind. regular preventive maintenance can reduce • Tie tarps to decking or hooks, or secure utility costs and avoid larger, more expensive them with a heavy weight so they are not problems, as well as reduce the risk of fire or picked up by the wind. unintended spills to waterways. Moorage Water and Waste Deck and Marina Protection Management Systems

Living on the water may mean more exposure Moorages generally get their fresh water from to wind, as compared to land-based homes, a well on the property, or through municipal including on moorage walkways, common services. The water is piped directly to spaces and individual decks. Along the individual homes. Water systems with individual Multnomah Channel, for example, winds from meters can reduce water use significantly by

11 include a drainfield whose location should be generally known, protected from damage, and maintained.

Water Systems in Northern Climates

Water is supplied to homes via deck lines which are likely to be exposed in places and, therefore, subject to outside temperatures. pipe insulation Care is needed in colder climates to prevent photo by Pat Welle pipes from freezing and breaking. Unsubmerged pipes should be insulated using the same allowing the location of leaks in the system to methods employed on land-based homes, be readily identified and repaired. Additionally, such as insulation material or heat tape (see low-flow faucets and other plumbing fixtures photo above). See page 16 for more about can be installed in individual homes to reduce managing pipes inside the home during freezing water use. temperature periods.

Each floating home has a sewage holding tank Moorage Lighting and Signage (usually 30-50 gallon) and a float-regulated waste Regulations transfer pump, properly called a macerator, but commonly known as a “honey pot.” The City of Portland regulations (which generally honey pot grinds sewage into a slurry, which also apply to moorages in Multnomah County) is pumped through a flexible hose to the dock specify how extensive lighting should be to connection. Tips for honey pot operation and illuminate gangways, ramps, and walkways. maintenance are described on pages 15-16. Installing low-angle spotlights or deck lighting with covers focuses the light down to the dock Sewer pipes are either connected to a public surface where it’s needed and reduces light sewer system or the moorage may use a pollution to individual homes and neighbors, as private system. Additionally, the former may well as wildlife. Marinas are encouraged to be utilize a tank to hold the waste before sending aware of light pollution and take energy saving it to a public system. Sewage systems may measures such as replacing incandescent bulbs

12 the boat is responsible for damage caused by the wake, including damage to boats, docks or injury to persons.

Minimizing Wake-Caused Damage to Floating Homes and Nearby Banks a downward-facing light on the dock photo by Pat Welle Floating home owners and moorage managers can help reduce wake-caused damage in several with fluorescent lights or other energy efficient ways: lighting, and installing timers or other controls • Have an outer deck and keep adequate to use light only when needed. Additional flotation under both the outer deck and information on fixtures and methods to reduce home and/or have a floating berm between light pollution can be found at the International the main channel and homes. Dark Sky Association (link on page 40.) • Plant and maintain trees, shrubs and other woody vegetation to provide stability Boat Wakes and Effects on Marinas and minimize erosion along riverbanks. More details on appropriate vegetation Wakes can seriously erode and degrade the are described in Chapter 3, and available banks of rivers, narrow canyons, and other from West Multnomah Soil & Water water bodies, as well as cause damage to Conservation District (WMSWCD); links moored structures. Wakes also create water and contact information are provided in turbulence and can be dangerous to swimmers, Chapter 6. canoers, kayakers, and boat anglers. • Post additional ‘No-Wake’ signs and install buoys to help discourage wake events near The Oregon State Marine Board’s (OSMB) a moorage. message is “Play Away,” meaning that wakeboard boats or yachts should operate in Wake Regulations and Reporting areas away from docks, moored or unmoored boats, and other paddle craft. When in The OSMB has significantly improved crowded areas, owners should operate craft in information on their website regarding wake a way that minimizes wakes. The operator of regulations. A link to their main website (for

13 this and much more information) is on page 40. rules throughout the state (link on page 40). You can report wake violators by submitting a complaint form (available on the Waterfront Minimizing Wakes from Recreational Craft Organizations of Oregon webpage; link on page 40) to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. Reducing a boat’s wake takes just common sense and courtesy. This means coming Know the regulations for your area and completely off plane when entering a no-wake encourage motorboats to reduce speed either zone or any area where the wake could by posting “Wake Watch” or other signs, and/ compromise the safety of other boats. Slowing or by using horns to alert boat users that they the boat slightly can actually increase the size of are going too fast. An example regulation (for a wake, depending on the speed. Multnomah Channel in Multnomah County) states, “No person shall operate a motorboat No wake means NO WAKE. The first rule is in excess of a 'slow-no wake' speed on to slow down so that the boat is level (without Multnomah Channel within 200 feet of boat using trim tabs) and the size of the wake is or floating home moorages located between negligible. Operators should look back at the Hadley’s Landing (RM 17.5) dock and the main wake being created. Repositioning passengers Willamette.” (ORS 830.110 & 830.175) toward the center of the boat to keep it level Additional rules apply to the Willamette in can reduce the size of a boat's wake. Too much Clackamas County and other areas, and the aft weight lowers the stern and increases the OSMB has created an interactive map to check size of the wake. Finally, operators should keep an eye on their depth sounders; shallow water increases the impact of a boat's wake. Damaging wakes can also be caused when an operator waits too long to pull back on the throttle. Even a small boat in the stern-down position can cause a huge wake.

two boats creating no wake in a no-wake zone photo by Pat Welle

14 Honey pot operation and maintenance

Honey pots capture all waste water from the floating home and transfer it to the moorage wastewater system. They are typically located under the home deck near the dock end of the structure and are made of fiberglass or steel. The current standard container is made of high density polypropylene, which has a nearly unlimited life expectancy if properly installed. Older honey pots will rust and leak over time and should be replaced with a new model as soon as possible. Ideally, you’ll find an access panel to the honey pot on the deck. Most covered honey pot photo by Pat Welle honey pots employ a masticator that grinds sewage and a pump that sends it from the pot to the sewer line. Pumps need regular servicing Chapter 2 – Individual Home as they can be disabled by power surges but Operation, Maintenance, and Repair

Water, Waste Management, and other Utilities

Proper maintenance and operation of home facilities is essential to prevent local spills and pollution. Regularly checking home conditions and fixing problems early can reduce costly and significant issues. The following section describes general operation of the major utilities used by floating homes.

uncovered, older honey pot photo by Pat Welle

15 a number of resources for natural cleaning solutions and recipes, as well as commercially- available products made without harmful chemicals. Care should be taken to consult and rely on reputable sources, however. Metro has useful, locally specific information on recycling and managing hazardous waste, and even recycled paint.

Other utilities, including heating and cooling

Electrical: Individual floating homes are hooking up utilities on a newly-installed home connected to moorage electrical systems and photo by Pat Welle are metered in the same way as land-based homes. You can find the requirements for otherwise will have good life expectancy. electrical wiring in Titles 26 and 28.07 of Floating home owners must take care to only the City of Portland Code. You will also send human waste and toilet paper through find requirements in codes for the cities of these systems because they use flexible hoses Gresham and Scappoose, and both Multnomah that can become easily plugged. and Columbia counties.

Living this near the water makes it especially Water pipes: A backup to properly insulated important for homeowners to limit their use pipes (see page 12) is to keep an indoor faucet of cleaning chemicals, and the toxicity of them, dripping during very cold temperature periods. both inside and outside the home. We still This can help prevent freezing of both water need to clean and care for our surroundings, and sewer lines. Ideally, a faucet farthest from but there are ways to do this that limit negative the home hook-up should be used. Ethanol environmental impacts. Alternatives to the should not be used in pipes to prevent freezing standard cleaning products include baking since it goes into the water system. soda, borax, vinegar and other typically benign chemicals (when used diluted), or vegetable- Insulation: Floating homes have various based soaps. A quick web search can provide structures between the floorboards and the

16 floats. Insulation may be minimal, if at all, and cool floor temperatures can therefore be a concern for residents. Use area rugs to keep floors comfortable in winter. The amount of insulation in walls and ceilings also varies and homeowners may wish to increase insulation in these areas, where structurally possible.

Heating and cooling systems: Heating and cooling systems for floating homes are similar heat pump system—outside to land-based homes. Split-system heat pumps photo by Pat Welle are gaining in popularity because they allow the user to direct heat to specific areas of efficiency; newer models include on-demand, the home. Given the close proximity to other point-of-use, heat-pump, and even solar. All of homes, owners should modify or replace older the aforementioned options are possible ways heating and cooling systems if they are noisy to reduce energy consumption in your home. and disturbing to neighbors. One option to help with the cost of replacement is the Columbia Home Flotation River PUD rebate program, which applies to many energy saving devices (see link on Most floating homes are placed on a float page 40). Upgrading a water heater is a great constructed of logs and wooden or steel potential source of cost savings and energy stringers (the structures between the float and the floorboards). Some older homes may have multiple layers of logs. The log floats provide a large mass below water, providing stability during turbulence. Concrete systems (some even with basements!) are also being used, and there are new types such as black-box floats. Homes are also built on barges, which are well- secured to a moorage.

heat pump system—inside Typically, encapsulated blocks of foam are placed photo by Pat Welle

17 strategically under the float to fully support the City of Portland code for new construction home’s weight. Each block provides between states “floating structures shall have adequate 600 and 800 pounds of lift. A licensed and flotation to maintain a clearance above the certified diver should install the foam blocks to water of one foot eight inches (1’-8”) minimum ensure the home is floating evenly. from water line to the finished floor level for the lowest occupied floor, under all applicable Older homes may have un-encapsulated foam load conditions.” Floating home owners in blocks. The presence of foam pellets around this area should keep in mind the potential for these blocks may be a sign that they are winter snow and ice accumulation on the roof deteriorating or water animals are chewing and decks which, in the case of a storm, could on them. This is a good time to replace the suddenly increase a home’s weight. Clearing old foam with the encapsulated variety to snow and ice as quickly as possible is critical, limit both the amount of foam in the water but the amount of flotation should account for and loss of flotation. Flotation of any kind of this condition. foam block can also diminish over time, so homeowners should keep an eye on the float Heavy items such as firewood should be level. Additional foam blocks can be added carefully balanced around the home if stored as necessary, keeping in mind that any new on the float. A slight tilt can cause long-term ones must be encapsulated. Another form of damage to the stringers, resulting in need for flotation is air-filled barrels, which have been replacement. This is an expensive undertaking, used for many years. so it is best avoided.

Information regarding the precise amount of Float inspections flotation to use with a log float is not easy to find, but research suggests that a minimum If using bank financing, float inspections are of four-to-six inches of clearance must be required for the sale and purchase of a floating maintained between the waterline and the base home. These are important even for buyers not of the stringers. The objective is to keep the using financing. Lenders require floats to pass logs as low in the water as possible (to prevent an inspection with a minimum life condition rot), while providing enough flotation to (usually 20 years, but can be 30); a professional adequately support the structure. inspection should include a dive assessment of the float.

18 External Structure Cleaning and using such projects include: Maintenance • Wrap work areas with a tarp to trap any paint chips or dust. Pressure washing and other exterior • Keep the paint in small containers. cleaning: Homes, decks, and other surfaces • Vacuum or sweep frequently to keep chips may require pressure washing or other cleaning from becoming airborne. methods. When pressure washing, make sure • Use a tarp or drip pan when mixing or no toxic substances enter the water body, transferring paint or other such chemicals. whether they are cleaning products or the • Always contain and clean up paint and toxic paint and wood sealants/preservatives that substance spills immediately. may be knocked loose in the process. For other cleaning projects, try using natural and Paint and varnish spills are considered oil spills biodegradable products at safe concentrations. and should be reported and treated according Again, diluted baking soda and vinegar are to state regulations. A link to “How to Report effective alternatives to more toxic chemical A Spill” in Oregon is provided on page 44. cleaning products. Always store potentially toxic chemicals Paint, stain, deck sealants, and potentially under cover and at a constant temperature. toxic chemicals: Paint, pesticides, and Containers exposed to the elements can insecticides should not be sprayed on or degrade and crack over time. Store toxic around floating homes due to the potential for chemicals in a tub or container in a storage transmission from the air to the water. Favor shed to limit leaks or spills that may enter “environmentally-friendly” products and non- the Multnomah Channel or other waterway. toxic cleaners to avoid the possibility of harmful Consider keeping these materials away from elements entering waterways. the waterway in a common area.

If you are painting or using deck stains, wood Take any left-over toxic product to a Metro preservers, or sealants on your floating home, transfer station. Consult Metro's website for make sure you prevent any products from information on location, hours, and fees (see dripping or spilling into the water. These types link on page 40). of products typically contain ingredients toxic to the environment and wildlife. Guidelines for

19 Chapter 3 – Vegetation and Continuous native vegetation along the river Animals or channel provides a vital corridor for wildlife movement, as well as critical food and cover. The opportunities to enjoy and manage In contrast, invasive weeds provide far fewer vegetation around floating homes and moorages beneficial functions and compete with desirable depend on the following factors: 1) upland and native plants. If left unchecked, they and invasive riparian or wetland space available; 2) dock, animals cause increasing amounts of harm. walkway and deck space; and 3) individual and community interest. Native trees and shrubs on The following sections provide information on the shoreline play a critical role in protecting how to use native plants in various moorage riverbanks from excessive erosion, enhance an settings, including container gardening, as well area’s aesthetics, and attract birds and other as information on composting and fertilizer, desirable species of wildlife – not to mention invasive plants and animals, wildlife that creating shade, storing carbon, filtering the air frequent the Multnomah Channel and typical and tempering climate extremes, among other moorages, and other related topics. environmental services. A number of website links with additional information on vegetation, wildlife and other natural resources, are provided in Chapter 6. With such knowledge and tools, you can better control invasive species, appreciate native species, and expand and improve native habitat.

Maintaining and Adding Native Plants

Maintaining and adding native vegetation to upland and wetland areas and immediately around moorages and homes is beneficial because they both improve the aesthetic experience and support local wildlife – including birds and pollinators that are adapted to their

Douglas spiraea blooming and fruiting cycles. photo by WMSWCD

20 Watching wildlife enhances our quality of life, and because native plants are adapted to our soil, climate and pests, they are more likely to survive and thrive than non-native ornamental plants. They do not need as much water, fertilizer, or pest control as non-native vegetation, which saves you time and money!

Most moorage properties contain some areas where new habitats can be created or where Black cottonwood forest existing ones can be restored or enhanced; photo by WMSWCD this is done by controlling invasive weeds and/or preserving and planting diverse native along walkways. Create a mini meadow in a pot vegetation. A potential new habitat is a rain and enjoy and support pollinators! Particularly garden or bioswale below a parking lot to useful and well-adapted plant species for capture and filter possibly-polluted run-off Willamette River and Multnomah Channel water, or a hedgerow of diverse native shrubs shorelines, and around ponds and wetlands, along an access road or fence, or near a are Oregon ash and black cottonwood (vital community vegetable garden – to capture trees for heron, hawk, and eagle nests, as well the services of the pollinators visiting the as songbirds), red or white alder, and a number hedgerow. of smaller native trees and shrubs. Red osier dogwood and various willow species (such as Natural habitats to enhance or restore include: Pacific, Sitka, and Scouler) are easy to establish 1) native Oregon white oak woodland or and helpful for stemming bank and other soil savanna, and meadow (possibly converted from erosion. Live cuttings, available from local lawn and/or over the septic drainfield) – in the wholesale native plant nurseries or harvested upland environment, 2) riparian forest – along from plants on-site, are particularly suited to the river, channel, or a local creek, and 3) planting in moist riverbank or wetland soils, wetland ponds or wet meadow – in the lower such as around ponds. Also appropriate for areas of the property. You can also create such settings are pacific ninebark, Douglas microhabitats by planting native shrubs, grasses spirea, swamp (clustered) rose, salmonberry, and wildflowers in containers on decks and elderberry, black twinberry, Western

21 – frequented by cedar waxwings; madrone; and the small cascara tree. Some popular native shrubs suitable for typically dry, upland sites are red flowering currant, Nootka rose, serviceberry, mock orange, oceanspray and Oregon grape (whose pretty yellow flowers are our state flower in Oregon). In addition to the aforementioned species, planting native and adaptable snowberry shrub helps imperiled native bees because it blooms into late summer when few native species are still blooming, and its fruits persist into winter, when food for birds and other wildlife is scarce. Native willows, such as Scouler willow, are also particularly beneficial because they provide food early in the season – in the form of nectar Oregon white oak and pollen – for bees and hummingbirds. photo by WMSWCD

crabapple, Douglas hawthorn (as opposed to the invasive English hawthorn), and native chokecherry.

In higher riparian or upland areas, planting and maintaining Oregon white oak (Quercus garryanna) trees is of particular interest because they are an important piece of our heritage and wildlife habitat, and are increasingly rare. Other desirable native, upland tree options include: Willamette Valley Ponderosa pine, which is a conifer that

cohabitates well with Oregon oak; bitter cherry bumblebee pollinating a tall Oregon grape photo by WMSWCD

22 with a habitat improvement project at a marina or moorage in western Multnomah County.

Container Gardening

Container gardening on floating homes is popular along decks and walkways, both in common moorage areas and at individual homes. Special considerations include container weight (plastic weighs less than ceramic but can Douglas aster with Woodland Skipper butterfly blow away if too light); the need to prune roots photo by Born1945; tinyurl.com/Douglas-aster every year or two to keep large plants from outgrowing their pots; and the need to re-pot To further enhance upland habitats, including plants or add soil every three years or so. meadows and hedgerows, you can add native wildflowers. Some that are easy to establish Container growing of vegetables is also popular. are Douglas aster, Canada goldenrod, yarrow, Keep in mind that fertilizer added to soil pearly everlasting, Oregon sunshine and may be flushed out by rainwater, so consider checkermallow. Providing a variety of (tree, compost or organic and slow release fertilizer, shrub, and wildflower) flower types and if needed. See Using Fertilizers, Herbicides, colors that bloom throughout the season will ensure that pollinators have enough food to thrive and survive the season. See a link to the WMSWCD bloom periods chart on page 42.

Many local nurseries carry a variety of native plants. You can find a list of both retail (for container plants) and wholesale (for economical, bareroot and small container plants) native plant nurseries on the WMSWCD and Metro regional government websites. Contact WMSWCD if you want help container garden photo by Pat Welle

23 and Pesticides section below for details about monarch butterflies or, more likely in our area, responsible gardening and landscape practices. swallowtails; elderberry blooms may attract a variety of pollinators and provide berries for birds; and red-flowering currant, honeysuckle, and black twinberry may attract hummingbirds.

The use of hydroponic gardens is another possible way of growing plants around a floating home. These are relatively uncommon around the Portland area, but many examples can be found on the internet. They range from small gardens with flowering plants and trees adjacent to homes, to more extensive and possibly shared community gardens, including vegetable gardens.

Camas photo by WMSWCD

There are a number of native plants that will grow in large containers that can fit on decks. These include small trees and shrubs such as vine maple, mock orange, and Pacific ninebark. Flowers and grasses to plant underneath them – if in a sunny spot – could include camas, tufted hairgrass and coastal strawberry. For shady areas, a good selection may be a vine maple with fringe cup, lady fern, and woodland strawberry underneath. Plants can be added

to attract wildlife. Milkweed plants may attract Anna's hummingbird pollinates and feeds on red flowering currant photo by Roger van Gelder

24 Composting and water that worms need to survive. The worm’s source of food is the bacteria that Composting is the process by which organisms grows on the food and the bedding supports such as bacteria, worms, and insects help turn the bacteria. Some of the best bedding is fruit and vegetable waste, or other organic shredded newspaper (tear into long strips, fluff matter, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. up and dampen with water; mix with leaves and Adding compost to soil promotes vegetation straw to keep from getting too compacted). health and growth while reducing fertilizer use Add bedding at the beginning and during and cost; compost is also a more stable and harvest time (to about 3/4 the height of the “organic” source of plant nutrients. For floating bin) and then add a few handfuls of garden soil home residents who typically lack outdoor to provide bacteria and grit that helps worms space for a compost heap, worm bins offer an digest. Keep fruit and vegetable scraps in a alternative way to make use of food scraps and container and empty them into the worm bin plant debris. once a week. Always keep worms and food covered with two-to-three inches of damp Using Worm Bins bedding. Harvest three-to-six months after setup and at least once a year thereafter. And, Worm composting uses red worms in an do not release non-native red-wiggler worms enclosed container to create worm castings, or (Eisenia foetida) or other non-native worms or vermicompost, which is even more nutrient- their egg cocoons into nature since they can rich than regular compost. All you need to harm native forests. make worm compost is a worm bin, bedding, food, and moderate temperatures. The Metro Using Fertilizers, Herbicides, and Recycling Information hotline (503-234-3000) Pesticides has a list of outlets where you can buy bins as well as designs for building your own. If you’re If you like to have potted plants around your putting your bin outside, make sure it’s in the floating home, use pots that don’t drain at shade in the summer and insulated during the the bottom, or make sure pots have large winter (fill it with straw and cover with a tarp). containment trays to keep water from overflowing into the Multnomah Channel or Bedding is an important component of worm other local waterway. bins because it maintains the balance of air

25 State and federal Clean Water Act regulations prohibit any household or garden chemical, solution, or product from entering any water body. Prohibited products include fertilizers and pesticides. Never apply herbicides or other pesticides around a water body or in an area where rain can carry the chemical(s) into the water, unless the product is specifically water primrose (Ludwigia hexapetala) labeled for aquatic use and applied by a licensed photo by Andrew Zharkikh; tinyurl.com/Water-primrose-Ludwigia applicator. to use. Instead of fertilizing lawn areas, rake 1/2 For fertilizers, favor “natural organic” or “slow inch of compost evenly across the grass when release” products since they are less likely to it is actively growing. And to reduce reliance on cause pollution if they do runoff, and use only fertilizers in the landscape in general, consider the amount the plants need, when they need it. using native plants more often since they are Or, put your vermicompost or other compost adapted to our climate and soil conditions and need little or no supplements.

If you have a plant or pest problem, practice Integrated Pest Management: 1) Identify the pest, disease, or weed you are trying to control; 2) decide what level of damage you can tolerate; and 3) look for the least toxic and most specific method(s) to control the problem effectively. This may be hand weeding a small area, for example, or introducing ladybugs to control aphids on your roses, or tolerating some damage and/or waiting until ladybugs show up. For specific control recommendations re: pernicious invasive weeds, contact WMSWCD, and for garden pest and disease

invasive common reed (Phragmites australis) troubleshooting, contact Multnomah County photo by WMSWCD

26 Master Gardeners (link on page 42). For for control because they pose a significant specific guidance on gardening without threat to the natural resources and economy of pesticides, consult the Grow Smart, Grow Safe our region but are still limited in extent. consumer guide (link on page 42). Examples of actively treated invasive EDRR plants that currently grow on our local Invasive Plant Identification and Control shorelines, including along Multnomah Channel, are the non-native, common reed (Phragmites Invasive plant species occur both in water and australis ssp. australis) and the non-native water on land, in both uplands and wetlands, including primrose (Ludwigia peploides and hexapetala), riparian areas along waterways. Invasive plants which grows in the water. The invasive are a nuisance and they displace native plants, common reed is very similar to our native reed, which negatively impacts wildlife and habitat, but much more aggressive. and affects water quality and erosion potential. The loss of diversity of native vegetation along Species controlled in select areas are purple waterways means fewer and less knitted roots loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) (inside Sauvie to hold the banks and filter run-off.

Invasive weeds spread aggressively and often create monocultures, or biological wastelands, once established, and, they are increasingly difficult to control if left unchecked. Waterways are especially susceptible to infestation because many weed species can spread through floating plant material, including seeds and root fragments. The good news is that there are many resources to help identify and control invasive weeds.

Information on most of the worst local invasive weeds, including those on the “Early Detection, Rapid Response” (EDRR) list, is available at the

WMSWCD website. These weeds are targeted purple loosestrife photo by Gail Hampshire; tinyurl.com/Purple-loosestrife

27 nutsedge (cyperus esculentus) and woolgrass (scirpus cyperinus).

Even more pervasive are Armenian, previously known as “Himalayan,” blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) and reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), which can completely take over streambanks and wetlands, as well as drier areas. Weeds that favor drier ground and threaten trees, along the shore and elsewhere, include English/Irish ivy (Hedera hibernica and H. helix) and Old Man’s Beard (Clematis vitalba), which invasive knotweed at Multnomah Channel moorage property rob trees of water, nutrients and sunlight, and photo by WMSWCD their weight sometimes bring down mature trees.

Island levees) and Japanese and Giant knotweed All of the aforementioned non-EDRR weeds (Polygonum cuspidatum, etc.) (on Sauvie Island). can be controlled by landowners, residents, See link on page 42 for which EDRR weeds landscape professionals and community WMSWCD currently controls and where. volunteers, where appropriate. Control is best Reach out to the Oregon Invasive Species Hotline (link on page 41) to report and get help identifying and controlling any of these species if you think you’ve found them.

Other invasive weeds that grow along our shorelines and in our wetlands have become more common than we would like. They are, therefore, beyond the “EDRR” stage. Such species include yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus), Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata),

false indigo bush (Amorpha fruticosa), yellow false indigo bush photo by Oregon State University; tinyurl.com/False-indigo-OSU

28 products and a specially licensed applicator should be employed.

Sometimes confused for an invasive weed is the Yellow flag iris (iris pseudacoris) native marsh pennywort. When found in large photo by James St. John; tinyurl.com/yellow-flag-iris-James-St-John patches, it is likely responding to an unnatural abundance of nutrients, such as from fertilizer followed by planting of native species to fill the or livestock manure run-off. void. For more information on EDRR, see links on page 42. Other native aquatic plants such as common elodea (Elodea Canadensis) and coontail Invasive plants occasionally also show up (Ceratophyllum demersum) are also sometimes on floating logs, which are often found near mistaken for non-natives, especially in settings moorages. Some of the invasive species with an abundance of nutrients, e.g. irrigation that have been seen in local moorages are: or drainage canals, where they can act weedy. jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), non-native Ludwigia, yellow flag iris, yellow archangel (Lamium galeobdolon), reed canary grass, non- native common reed (Phragmites australis ssp. australis), and climbing/bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara).

One method for removing invasive plants when limited in number or size is to hand-pull them, ideally before they go to seed. Confirm what you have and understand how it spreads before you remove it. If it is an invasive plant species that spreads from plant fragments, be sure to get all parts of the plants so it doesn’t spread elsewhere, or seek professional help for control. If herbicides prove necessary to control an invasive weed, only aquatic-approved native marsh pennywort (hydrocotyle) photo by Rich Miller

29 Priority Aquatic Invasive Animal and Plant Species

A number of high priority aquatic plant and animal invaders, including aquatic animals that can cause great economic and ecological harm, have been documented in Oregon waters and are targeted for control by the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the Oregon zebra mussel (left) and quagga mussel (right) Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), and photo by U.S. Geological Survey the Oregon State Marine Board. Others have yet to arrive and the goal is to keep them out Statewide efforts are underway to prevent the of the state. Some of the aquatic invaders of introduction of zebra and quagga mussels into concern are plants; others are animals such as Oregon. introduced fish, crayfish, snails, and mussels. Other non-native animal species for which Animals: Zebra and quagga mussels, which to be on the lookout are the non-native red adhere to submerged natural and man-made swamp, ringed, and rusty crayfish, which have surfaces, can destroy boat motors and aquatic been found in Oregon, but are not wanted; see ecosystems. ODFW invasive species webpage (link on page 43) for help differentiating from native signal crayfish. Report any of the aforementioned species, as well as Red eared sliders and Common snapping turtles, to the Oregon Invasive Species Hotline if found (see link on page 41).

Plants: Plants of concern that are truly aquatic include hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata), which is not yet established in Oregon, as well as flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus) and

non-native red swamp crayfish yellow floating heart (Nymphoides peltata). photo by Rick Boatner, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

30 These plants still have limited distribution and should be reported to Oregon Invasive Species Hotline if found.

Other aquatic invasive weeds such as South American waterweed (Egeria densa or Elodea), Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), curly pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) Hydrilla verticillata (former aquarium plants) and parrot feather photo by Matthew Beziat; tinyurl.com/hydrilla-Beziat (Myriophyllum aquaticum) already infest water bodies throughout western Oregon, including species. Be sure to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY the Willamette River and canals on Sauvie boats and other watercraft and equipment, Island. These species, therefore, don’t warrant including fishing waders and boots, before reporting if found. moving to a new waterway; see the Oregon State Marine Board aquatic invasive species What can you do? Prevention and early program website for “how-to” details. As noted response are the best tactics for minimizing above, if you suspect you have found a priority the spread of aquatic invasive plant and animal aquatic invasive species, please report it to Oregon Invasive Species Hotline. And, in the case of aquatic weeds that may be responding to other human influences, consider if you can help reduce any factors that contribute to their proliferation.

Additional resources, including a prioritized list of invasive plants found on Sauvie Island/ Multnomah Bottomlands, and aquatic weed guides from the Benton Soil and Water Conservation District and the City of Portland are referenced in Chapter 6 under Plants and Animals.

flowering rush photo by WMSWCD

31 under water in the spring. Nest boxes with just the right size opening can attract swallows, and, along with the martins, are mosquito control agents. Clean nest boxes annually to keep these avian visitors interested and healthy. Such birdhouses can also be attached to decks.

Bats: They are our friends in mosquito control. To encourage bats, mount bat boxes in quieter areas of the moorage near the water. For guidance on how to build and mount bat boxes correctly, including proper exposure to the sun, and position on the tree or structure, see resources listed on page 43. native purple martins with gourd houses photo by WMSWCD Nutria: These non-native, aquatic rodents are a nuisance around moorages as they can Wildlife Around Moorages and damage banks by burrowing and browsing Floating Homes the native vegetation. Mitigation measures for nutria include exclusion wire around small areas One of the joys of living in a floating home of desirable plants and trapping; prevention and community is the abundance of wildlife, control measures are described on the Oregon including waterfowl, riverine mammals, Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website. and birds. There are a number of things Your local ODFW office, e.g., on Sauvie Island, homeowners can do to encourage desirable is the best source of information regarding legal wildlife activity and reduce any conflicts. options to deal with nutria conflicts.

Birds and birdhouses: A successful way to Beaver and otter: These native species are attract purple martins, a species of concern, is frequent visitors around floating homes and to hang gourds or carefully sized nest boxes marinas. Playful otters are fun to watch and from pilings or other elevated structures. Be beavers are essential wetland engineers, so sure to hang them high enough so they aren’t it’s best to learn to live with them. That said,

32 both animals can chew on pellet foam blocks under floating homes. So, homeowners should watch for pellets in the water, and if necessary, replace un-encapsulated foam blocks with encapsulated varieties. Your local ODFW office can also offer advice and information on options to manage beaver damage. red-legged frog, a native species Frogs and salamanders: Several of our local photo by WMSWCD native species breed in wetlands and attach their eggs to wetland vegetation that emerges The red-legged frog is a “sensitive species” from the water; long-toed salamanders also use that travels from above Harborton Road, tiny willow branches that dip into the water. across Highway 30, into the wetlands just If you have ponds or wetlands, you can plant upstream of Fred’s Marina, and then back to shoreline and emergent vegetation and add the forest. Migration of these red-legged frogs, branches to the water to provide more habitat. along with chorus frogs (tree frogs) and long- You can also enhance nearby woods and toed and northwestern salamanders, occurs maintain downed trees and logs on the ground between December and March each year, to give frogs and salamanders a safe place to assisted in the last several years by a cadre of overwinter and thrive as adults. dedicated volunteers. If driving Marine Drive or Harborton Road during these months, slow down to keep these amphibians alive!

Native turtles: Both the Western painted and the pond turtle are shy creatures who like quiet waters. They might be found in less trafficked wetland or slough areas near marinas and on log booms if properly angled for basking. Help them by placing logs or small wooden rafts (such as small untreated packing pallets) in the water and enjoy them from a distance if you

native western painted turtle spot them. photo by Pat Welle

33 Fox and Coyote: Keep in mind the potential for such native predators in nearby upland areas, especially if you have small pets. Learn to appreciate these local wildlife.

Pollinators: Install a variety of native flowering vegetation around marinas and gardens to support imperiled native bees (and honey bees) that are vital to food production and ecosystems. Certain (non-native) flowering herbs, such as rosemary, lavender, hyssop, Russian sage, borage, and various mints are especially attractive to pollinators (which include hummingbirds). Note that the mints

green sweat bee on native yarrow plant photo by WMSWCD

and borage may spread aggressively and are, therefore, safer grown in containers. Native honeysuckle is particularly attractive to “hummers,” as are regularly cleaned, full hummingbird feeders. For guidance on creating pollinator habitat and selecting plants with a range of bloom times, see the information and guides available on the “Planting for Pollinators” page on the WMSWCD website (link on page 42); the Bloom Period chart lists specific species, their growing needs and bloom times,

native orange honeysuckle as well as color. photo by WMSWCD

34 Songbirds: Our songbirds also benefit from a variety of native flowering and fruiting plants, either along the shoreline, in hedgerows, along the edge of the woods or wetlands, or in a created meadow. Bird feeders can help attract and support such birds too.

Waterfowl: Moorages are a great viewing place for many ducks and other waterfowl. Wood Ducks, teals, scaups, and Bufflehead are some of the many species that can be seen from our decks! Canada geese are common and Trumpeter swan can be seen during the nonbreeding season. It is best to enjoy these birds without feeding them, which interferes with their natural foraging behavior and nutrition.

Eagles, herons, osprey and cormorants: These can all be enjoyed in the moorage setting. The first three particularly benefit from tall and dead trees for perching and nesting. Keep or plant such trees like cottonwoods along the shoreline and nearby in places where they don’t pose a hazard to human infrastructure. Cormorants enjoy perching on remnant pilings and will also roost or nest in trees.

great blue heron in a cottonwood tree photo by Pat Welle

35 Chapter 4 – Recreational up paddleboards, rafts, etc.), are required to Craft, Swimming, and Other purchase and carry a Waterway Access Permit Activities (formerly called an Aquatic Invasive Species Permit) when boating in Oregon state waters. Many floating home owners are active The cost is fairly minimal. More information is recreational boaters, and moorages often available at the Oregon Department of Fish and have recreational craft alongside their homes. Wildlife websites listed on page 43. There are a number of important things to do to properly maintain and use these crafts Gas and Oil Spills to minimize their impacts on the natural environment. See suggestions below. Gasoline, diesel, oil, and other petroleum products used in boats and power equipment Invasive Species Permits are harmful to the aquatic environment. These products can kill fish, mammals, and birds Because of the negative impacts of invasive or cause cancer, mutations, and other birth species on our waterways and the need defects. They can also harm plants, which to fund prevention and control programs, supply needed food and oxygen to aquatic life. operators of motorboats or non-motorized If you spill any amount of oil or fuel into the watercraft 10-feet or longer (e.g. kayaks, stand water, you are responsible for the immediate clean-up and must report the spill by calling the Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) at 1-800-452-0311 and the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802. Don’t try to clean up oil spills in the water with soap or detergent; doing so causes oil to scatter deeper into the water, which is why it’s unlawful to use those products in water bodies. Detergents also contain chemical ingredients that are harmful to aquatic life.

When fueling a boat, refer to the Oregon Clean

kayaking on the Multnomah Channel Boater Guide. In brief, the guide directs you to photo by WMSWCD

36 1) install catch basins for filling portable fuel tanks on land; 2) install double-wall tanks with an alarm system that detects leaks; and 3) have absorbent materials available to clean up spills. The Oregon State Marine Board has more information on these practices.

Water Quality for Swimming and Fishing

a Clean Marina fueling station Many moorage residents and visitors enjoy photo by Rocky Pointe Marina getting on the water for recreation – for wading, swimming, paddling, or fishing – and monitor the fuel nozzle at all times, making sure some wonder if water contact is safe. There it’s connected to the fuel tank to avoid spilling. has been greater attention to cleaning up the Only fill the tank to 90% because fuel expands Lower Willamette River in recent years, and as as it warms up. Fill portable gas tanks on land a result, water quality is improving. where spills are easier to clean up. If your vessel has a built-in fuel tank, install a fuel/air separator The 2015 Willamette River Report Card, by in the vent line to prevent air vent spills. the Meyer Memorial Trust, describes the key indicators that experts used to give the river Consider replacing your older two-stroke a B- grade overall. The health of the river engine; they release up to 30% of their gas/oil decreases as it flows downriver, however, mixture into the water. Choose a quieter and and the lowest grade of C was assigned to the cleaner direct-injection two-stroke or a four- Lower Willamette and Multnomah Channel. A stroke engine. link to the publication is provided on page 43.

Refueling Stations for Boats The City of Portland, Bureau of Environmental Services has a regular sampling program for Moorages that have refueling stations for water quality in the Willamette River (see link recreational craft can modify their operations on page 43). The Oregon Health Authority to limit impacts to water quality. For example: has recreational advisories available on their

37 website (see link on page 44). Sampling results and more information specific to the Lower Willamette are available from both agencies.

According to Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) personnel, the Willamette River is generally safe for all activities, except for regular consumption of fish from the river. An ODEQ Fact toxic algae bloom Sheet updated in 2018 (Is it Safe to Swim in photo by California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife; tinyurl.com/algal-bloom-CDFW the Willamette River in Portland) notes the Willamette River is monitored regularly at Water Safety for Swimming several locations, and that the water is safe for swimming and other recreation most times of Electricity and water are a dangerous the year. combination for swimmers. It’s critical that owners of floating homes regularly inspect their In 2011, the City of Portland completed a utility lines and wiring to make sure they are massive installation of new larger pipes to secure and intact. “Electric Shock Drowning” better manage combined sewer overflows is a drowning resulting from paralysis caused that were going into the Willamette River. by electrical currents in the water, which Nonetheless, recreators should still use can come from faulty electrical equipment caution after large storm events, and in the late and wiring, and improper grounding. More summer when higher temperatures and lower information can be found at the Electric Shock water levels can cause algae blooms in still Drowning Prevention Association website (see water areas. These are characterized by water link on page 44). filled with stringy, slimy plant-like material that sometimes contains toxic cyanobacteria.

The Oregon Health Authority recommends not swimming in cloudy water, not swallowing river water while swimming, showering after swimming, and washing hands before eating.

38 Chapter 5 – Codes and to protect and improve local water quality Regulations by promoting the use of environmentally safe practices at marinas. Marinas certified as City of Portland Title 28 – Floating ‘Clean Marinas’ receive recognition and are Structures provided free pollution prevention supplies Title 28 of the City of Portland Charter and technical assistance and Code covers floating structures for all for environmental moorages along the Willamette River and compliance. The program Columbia River in the Portland Metro area, is described on the including unincorporated western Multnomah OSMB website, and in County. These regulations, which are specific to the Oregon Clean Marina structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical Guidebook. Links are components of buildings, recognize that floating provided on page 40. structures interact with the environment differently than land-based structures, and have The Marine Board provides regulations on boat distinctive design requirements. The City's operations, including the creation of wakes. Harbor Master inspects such structures and New rules have been added regarding wakes permits, tests, and inspects fire protection for the Willamette River in Clackamas and standpipes. other counties upriver of Portland. See pages 13-14 for more information on wakes. The City of St. Helens and Columbia County also have a mix of structural, mechanical, The Marine Board is also responsible for plumbing and electrical codes they apply to issuing certificates of title and floating home floating homes in their jurisdiction. Contact the identification number plates. appropriate entity for additional information on specific requirements for your location. See The agency has an interactive map on their page 40 for links to municipal codes. website of boater facilities and other resources. Look for the link on their homepage for Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) "Interactive Boat Oregon Map." Find the homepage link on page 40. The OSMB's Clean Marina program works

39 Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) – • Homepage with link to Interactive Boat Oregon Map: oregon .gov/OSMB/Pages/ index .aspx • Oregon Clean Marina Program & Clean Marina Guide: oregon gov/OSMB/. boater-info/Pages/Clean-Marinas .aspx

Resource conservation

moorage at night Columbia River PUD Residential Energy photo by Pat Welle Efficiency Rebate Programs:crpud .net/ways- to-save/at-home/ Chapter 6 – Resources Energy efficiency in homes:energystar .gov/ Moorage, Home, and Boater-related Metro – City of Portland – Charter, Code and Policies, • Composting: oregonmetro .gov/tools- Title 28 Floating Structures: portlandoregon . living/yard-and-garden/composting gov/citycode/28192 • Garbage and Recycling: oregonmetro .gov/ tools-living/garbage-and-recycling City of St. Helens – Municipal Codes for Floating Homes: codepublishing .com/ Wakes OR/StHelens/#!/html/StHelens15/ StHelens1516 html. Oregon State Marine Board – Information and Regulations on Wakes: oregon .gov/osmb/ International Dark Sky Association: boater-info/Pages/Wake .aspx darksky .org/lighting/lighting-basics Waterfront Organizations of Oregon – Multnomah County – Sauvie Island Multnomah no-wake information: waterfrontoregon .com/ Channel Rural Area Plan (RAP), Chapter 2: no-wake-information multco.us/file/67286/download

40 Plants and Animals

Invasive Species

Benton Soil and Water Conservation District – Aquatic Weed Guide: bentonswcd .org/assets/ BSWCDAquaticWeedGuidebklt15 .pdf

Oregon Department of Agriculture – • Common Reed: oregon .gov/oda/programs/ weeds/oregonnoxiousweeds/pages/ boat creating an unacceptable wake in a no-wake zone aboutoregonweeds .aspx#common-reed photo by Pat Welle • Noxious weed brochures: oregon . gov/ODA/programs/Weeds/Pages/ Oregon State Marine Board – Aquatic Invasive WeedsResources aspx. Species: • Hydrilla, An Aquatic Invader Brochure: • oregon.gov/OSMB/boater-info/Pages/ oregon .gov/ODA/shared/Documents/ Aquatic-Invasive-Species-Program .aspx Publications/Weeds/HydrillaBrochure .pdf • oregon.gov/OSMB/forms-library/ • South American Water Weed (Egeria Documents/Environmental/ densa) Brochure: oregon .gov/ODA/ AISBrochureWEB .pdf shared/Documents/Publications/Weeds/ SouthAmericanWaterweedBrochure pdf. Portland State University – Oregon Lake • Yellow floating heart (Nymphoides peltata)- Watch: pdx .edu/oregon-lake-watch/watch- Brochure: oregon gov/ODA/shared/. list-species Documents/Publications/Weeds/ YellowFloatingheartBrochure .pdf U.S. Department of Agriculture – New Zealand Mud Snail: invasivespeciesinfo .gov/aquatics/ Oregon Invasive Species Hotline: mudsnail .shtml oregoninvasiveshotline org. / 1-866-INVADER

41 WMSWCD – Early Detection-Rapid Response Grow Smart, Grow Safe Consumer Guide: (EDRR) / High priority weeds: growsmartgrowsafe .org • wmswcd .org/programs/early-detection- rapid-response-edrr-weeds/ Metro – Native Plants for Willamette Valley • EDRR Treatment Species List: wmswcd . Yards: oregonmetro .gov/sites/default/ org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ files/native_plants_for_willamette_valley_ WMSWCD-EDRR-List_8-20-19 .pdf yards_booklet .pdf • Weed Watchers EDRR ID Guide (co- produced): wmswcd .org/wp-content/ Multnomah County Master Gardeners: uploads/2015/06/EDRR-Booklet . multnomahmastergardeners .org / pdf?525e89 503-445-4608 • Sauvie Island/Multnomah Bottomlands invasive plants (Prioritized list in Appendix Native Plant Society of Oregon: 4, page 90): wmswcd .org/wp-content/ npsoregon .org/landscaping1 .html uploads/2015/08/SICO_10-15-18_web- version_vert-maps pdf. Oregon State University – Rain Gardens: seagrant .oregonstate edu/sgpubs/rain-. Native Plants and Vegetation gardens

East Multnomah SWCD – Native plant sources: Scappoose Bay Watershed Native Plant Nursery: emswcd .org/native-plants/local-sources/ scappoosebay-wc .org/native-plant-nursery/

WMSWCD – • Bloom Periods chart: wmswcd .org/ wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ WMSWCD_PollBloomChart_ interactive_4 .2018 pdf. • Planting for Pollinators: wmswcd .org/ programs/planting-for-pollinators/

floating homes in winter snow photo by Pat Welle

42 • Guide for Using Native Willamette Valley Water Quality and Safety Plants along your Stream: wmswcd org/. wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Guide- 2015 Willamette River for-Using-Willamette-Valley-Native- Report Card: Plants-Along-Your-Stream .pdf • ecoreportcard. org/report-cards/ Wildlife willamette-river/ publications/2015- Building Bat Houses: willamette-river- • batcon.org/resources/getting-involved/ report-card/ bat-houses • extension.oregonstate. City of Portland edu/4hwildlifestewards/pdfs/bats .pdf • Stormwater Solutions Handbooks (information on bioswales): Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife • For design: portlandoregon .gov/bes/ (ODFW): article/129057 • Information on Nutria: dfw .state or. .us/ • For plant choices: portlandoregon . wildlife/living_with/nutria .asp gov/bes/article/129060 • Invasive species information: dfw .state . • Willamette River Recreation Index (water or .us/conservationstrategy/invasive_ quality information): portlandoregon .gov/ species .asp bes/57781 • Sauvie Island Wildlife Area: myodfw .com/ sauvie-island-wildlife-area-visitors-guide • Waterway Access and Aquatic Invasive Species permits: myodfw .com/articles/ buying-aquatic-invasive-species- prevention-permit • Wildlife viewing: myodfw .com/wildlife- viewing

floating homes in morning fog photo by Pat Welle

43 Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association: electricshockdrowning .org/

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – • How to Report A Spill: oregon .gov/deq/ Hazards-and-Cleanup/env-cleanup/ Pages/How-To-Report-A-Spill .aspx • Bioswales, Vegetative Buffers, and Constructed Wetlands For Stormwater Discharge Pollution Removal: oregon .gov/ deq/FilterPermitsDocs/biofiltersV2.pdf

Oregon Health Authority – Recreational advisories: oregon .gov/ oha/ph/newsadvisories/Pages/ RecreationalAdvisories .aspx

Grants and Programs

WMSWCD's Healthy Streams and Healthy Habitats programs offer technical assistance, conservation plans, and cost-share for rural habitat projects, which can include moorages. See: wmswcd org/services/conservation-. planning/ or wmswcd org/types/habitat-. restoration/ or contact [email protected].

rainbow over the Multnomah Channel, downstream of Sauvie Island bridge photo by Pat Welle

44 Chapter 7 – Emergency Numbers and Services/ Contracting Resources

Emergency Numbers and Utilities

Fire/Medical/Police Emergency: Call 9-1-1. (Non-emergency number is 503-823-3333) floating home in transit Multnomah County Sheriff: 503-988-4300 photo by Pat Welle Multnomah County River Patrol: 503-988-6788 Columbia County Sheriff: 1-503-366-4611 Contractors NW Natural: 1-800-882-3377 Poison Control 24-hour Hotline: 1-800-222-1222 Derek Morrell, for new construction and PGE: 503-464-7777 or 1-800-542-8818 building supplies, including logs and stringers: Columbia River PUD: 503-397-1844 derekmorrellfloatinghomes-boathouses- Sauvie Island Fire non-emergency: 503-621-1242 woodproduct .com U.S. Coast Guard: Marine Safety Office: 503-240-9301 Even Construction, for new construction and Report oil spills: 800-OILS-911 (800-645-7911) remodel: evenconstruction .com Wildlife nuisances, ODFW: 503-621-3488 Floating Home Services (Kent Moulton), for Contracting and Homeownership sewer repairs, pumps, tanks, leaks: Resources 503-543-6979 or 503-803-3813

The following companies and contractors are Dive Services, for home and flotation listed for information purposes only and do inspection, or other related services: not constitute any kind of endorsement. 2-Deep Diving: 503-366-0468 Always ask for references and go to the Harbor Services: 503-286-4244 or 503-453-7317 Oregon Construction Contractors Board John Glen: 503-366-4430 or 503-803-1459 website to verify license status, see history Marine Services: 504-460-1522 of complaints, etc.: oregon .gov/ccb/pages/ Richie Rich: 503-282-1210 or 503-497-8922 index .aspx

45 Floating Home Lenders

The following financial institutions are financing floating homes, as of this document’s publication date: Banner Bank; InRoads Credit Union; Trailhead Credit Union

Homeowners Insurance

All homeowners should have insurance; The following insurance companies are covering floating homes, as of this document’s publication date: Chubb; Red Shield Insurance (redshield.com/floating.html); United Heritage Insurance. Floating home owners should be aware of the differences between available policies, which may or may not include coverage for Perils of the Sea (accidents or casualties of the sea).

Sauvie Island bridge photo by Pat Welle

46 2701 NW Vaughn Street, Suite 450 Portland, OR 97210 wmswcd.org | 503.238.4775 | [email protected]

July 2020 Edition